I have the type of job where I NEED to be at work when I am on - no ifs ands or buts (ie: can not call out, and there is no such thing as 'snow days'). so I was considering just excavating/flattening that area to ensure I have no issues getting in/out. (will be safer for the wife/kid as well since we can not access the house from the garage and need to walk outside.)